EP2513401B1 - Profiled spacer and insulation glazing assembly with such a profiled spacer - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a spacer profile for use in insulating disk units having such a spacer profile and an insulating disk unit having such a spacer profile.

Insulating disk units with at least two disks 151, 152 held in the insulating disk unit at a distance from each other are known (see FIG. 16 ). The discs 151, 152 are usually formed of inorganic or organic glass or other materials such as Plexiglas. The spacing of the disks 151, 152 is normally ensured by a spacer frame 150 formed of at least one composite spacer profile 100. Composite spacer profiles, which are also referred to as composite spacer profiles, are provided as a diffusion barrier from a plastic profile and a metal layer, are eg in the DE 198 32 731 A1 (Family member WO 2000/005475 A1 ), of the EP 0 953 715 A2 (Family member US 6,196,652 ) or the EP 1 017 923 A1 (Family member US 6,339,909 ).

The disc space 153 is preferably filled with an insulating inert gas such as argon, krypton, xenon, etc. The filling gas should not be able to escape from the space between the panes 153 even over a long period of time. Likewise, the ambient air, or components of it, such as nitrogen, oxygen, water, etc., should not be able to penetrate into the space between the panes 153. For this reason, the spacer profile 100 must be formed such that diffusion between the disk interior 153 and the environment is prevented. Spacer profiles therefore have a diffusion barrier 157, which prevents diffusion of the filling gas from the space between the panes 153 into the environment through the spacer profile 100.

Furthermore, to achieve a low heat conduction in these Isolierscheibeneinheiten in particular the heat transfer of the edge bond, ie the composite of the edge of the Isolierscheibeneinheit, the discs 151, 152 and the spacer frame 150 plays a very large role. Insulating washer units which ensure high thermal insulation in the edge bond fulfill the so-called "warm edge" condition according to the meaning of the term in the art. The spacer profiles 100 should therefore have good thermal insulation.

The spacer frame 150 is preferably bent from a one-piece spacer profile 100. To close the frame 150, the two ends of the spacer profile 100 are connected by means of a connector. If the spacer frame 150 is composed of a plurality of spacer profile pieces 100, multiple connectors are also necessary. Both in terms of manufacturing costs and with respect to the insulating properties, it is preferable to provide only one connection point.

The bending of the frame 150 from the spacer profile 100, for example, by cold bending (at a room temperature of about 20 ° C). The problem of wrinkling on the bends occurs.

The spacer profile should be bend with the least possible wrinkling and at the same time also have a high strength and flexural rigidity.

From the EP 0 601 488 A2 (Family member US 5,460,862 ) is a spacer profile is known in which an additional reinforcing insert is embedded in the plastic on the profile side, which faces the disc space in the mounted state.

Next spacers are known which have a comparatively thin continuous reinforcing layer of metal material on the profile body made of plastic. Such spacers lose their bending resistance by 90 ° in their diffusion-tightness and have comparatively thick plastic profile walls, so they do not sag too much.

From the DE 198 32 731 A1 (Family member WO 2000/005475 A1 ) is a spacer profile is known, the profile body consists of poor thermal conductivity material and is connected to a substantially over its entire width extending diffusion-tight layer of good heat conducting material. The diffusion-tight layer of good heat-conducting material has a region extending in the longitudinal direction of the spacer profile with reduced heat conduction transversely to the longitudinal direction of the spacer profile.

An object of the invention is to provide an improved spacer profile, in which in particular the thermal insulation is improved with good strength or bending stiffness and good folding properties during bending. An insulating disk unit having such spacer profiles is another object of the invention.

This object is achieved by a spacer profile according to claim 1, or an insulating disk unit according to claim 15.

Further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

The diffusion-tightness is ensured on the one hand by a diffusion barrier, which is formed from the two reinforcing layers and the diffusion barrier layer and lies in bending the spacer profile in the neutral fiber. On the other hand, the hollow profile body may be at least partially made of a diffusion-tight plastic material, such as an EVOH material that ensures the diffusion-tightness. Also in this case, between the reinforcing layers, a diffusion barrier layer, namely the part of the outer wall located between the reinforcing layers, is formed. The diffusion barrier layer transmits much less heat than the reinforcement layers. The spacer profile with the two mutually separated reinforcing layers, which are interconnected in a central region by means of a diffusion barrier layer, has a substantially lower thermal conductivity, while maintaining the same diffusion-tightness, than a comparable conventional spacer profile. At the same time, the spacer profile becomes stiffer and stronger. Furthermore, material can be saved, whereby the manufacturing costs and weight can be reduced. By proper formation of the geometry of the hollow profile body and the reinforcing layers, the diffusion barrier layer, as the spacer is bent, lies approximately on the neutral fiber (the zone of material which does not strain or buckle upon bending) of the spacer profile. Therefore, in bending, substantially no tensile stresses act on the diffusion barrier layer. For this reason, a diffusion barrier layer can be used, which must absorb little or no tensile forces. In addition, the diffusion barrier layer can be easily applied to the spacer profile.

FIG. 1

in a) und b) je eine perspektivische Querschnittsansicht einer zusammengebauten Isolierscheibeneinheit mit dazwischen angeordnetem Abstandshalterprofil, Klebematerial und Dichtmaterial,

FIG. 2

eine schematische Seitenansicht, teilweise aufgeschnitten, eines aus einem Abstandshalterprofil gebogenen Abstandshalterrahmens im idealen Zustand,

FIG. 3

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils, in a) nach einer ersten Ausführungsform, in einer U-Konfiguration und mit einer schmalen Diffusionssperrschicht, und in b) nach einer zweiten Ausführungsform, in einer U-Konfiguration und mit einer breiten Diffusionssperrschicht,

FIG. 4

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils, in a) nach einer dritten Ausführungsform, in einer W-Konfiguration und mit einer schmalen Diffusionssperrschicht, und in b) nach einer vierten Ausführungsform, in einer W-Konfiguration und mit einer breiten Diffusionssperrschicht,

FIG. 5

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer fünften Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 6

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer sechsten Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 7

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer siebten Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration, in c) eine vergrößerte Ansicht des in a) von einem Kreis umgebenen Abschnitts und in d) eine vergrößerte Ansicht des in b) von einem Kreis umgebenen Abschnitts,

FIG. 8

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer achten Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 9

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer neunten Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 10

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer zehnten Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 11

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer elften Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 12

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer zwölften Ausführungsform, in a) in einer W-Konfiguration und in b) in einer U-Konfiguration,

FIG. 13

eine Aufsicht auf die Außenwand eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer dreizehnten Ausführungsform, und

FIG. 14

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer vierzehnten Ausführungsform,

FIG. 15

eine Querschnittsansicht des Abstandshalterprofils nach der ersten Ausführungsform nach einem Biegevorgang,

FIG. 16

in a) und b) je eine perspektivische Querschnittsansicht einer zusammengebauten Isolierscheibeneinheit mit dazwischen angeordnetem Abstandshalterprofil, Klebematerial und Dichtmaterial, wie sie im Stand der Technik bekannt ist,

FIG. 17

in a) bis e) jeweils eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer fünfzehnten bis neunzehnten Ausführungsform,

FIG. 18

eine Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer zwanzigsten Ausführungsform, und

FIG. 19

einen Ausschnitt einer Querschnittsansicht eines Abstandshalterprofils nach einer einundzwanzigsten Ausführungsform.

Further features and expediencies will become apparent from the description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the figures. From the figures show:

FIG. 1

in a) and b) each show a perspective cross-sectional view of an assembled Isolierscheibeneinheit with interposed spacer profile, adhesive material and sealing material,

FIG. 2

a schematic side view, partially cut away, of a spacer profile bent spacer frame in the ideal state,

FIG. 3

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile, in a) according to a first embodiment, in a U-configuration and with a narrow diffusion barrier layer, and in b) according to a second embodiment, in a U-configuration and with a wide diffusion barrier layer,

FIG. 4

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile, in a) according to a third embodiment, in a W configuration and with a narrow diffusion barrier layer, and in b) according to a fourth embodiment, in a W configuration and with a wide diffusion barrier layer,

FIG. 5

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a fifth embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and in b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 6

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a sixth embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and in b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 7

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a seventh embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and b) in a U-configuration, in c) an enlarged view of the in a) surrounded by a circle portion and in d) an enlarged view of in b) section surrounded by a circle,

FIG. 8th

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to an eighth embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and in b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 9

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a ninth embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 10

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a tenth embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and in b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 11

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to an eleventh embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and in b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 12

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a twelfth embodiment, in a) in a W configuration and in b) in a U-configuration,

FIG. 13

a plan view of the outer wall of a spacer profile according to a thirteenth embodiment, and

FIG. 14

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a fourteenth embodiment,

FIG. 15

a cross-sectional view of the spacer profile according to the first embodiment after a bending operation,

FIG. 16

in a) and b) each show a perspective cross-sectional view of an assembled Isolierscheibeneinheit with interposed spacer profile, adhesive material and sealing material, as is known in the art,

FIG. 17

in a) to e) are each a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a fifteenth to nineteenth embodiment,

FIG. 18

a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a twentieth embodiment, and

FIG. 19

a section of a cross-sectional view of a spacer profile according to a twenty-first embodiment.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to FIGS FIGS. 1 to 17 described. Identical features are denoted by the same reference numerals in all figures, and for reasons of clarity, not all figures are used in all figures.

Hereinafter, a spacer profile 1 according to a first embodiment with reference to FIG. 3a ). The spacer profile 1 is in the FIG. 3a ) in cross section perpendicular to a longitudinal direction Z, ie, shown in section in an XY plane, which is from a transverse direction X which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Z and a height direction Y which is perpendicular to the transverse direction X and the longitudinal direction Z, is spanned. The spacer profile 1 extends in the embodiment in the longitudinal direction Z with a Symmetrieebene L, which is arranged centrally with respect to the transverse direction X and parallel to the longitudinal direction Z and the height direction Y runs.

The spacer profile 1 has a hollow profile body 10 made of a plastic material which extends in the longitudinal direction Z with a constant cross-sectional shape and has a first width b1 in the transverse direction X and a first height h1 in the height direction Y. The hollow profile body 10 has in its height direction Y an inner wall 12 and on the inner wall 12 opposite side in the height direction Y an outer wall 14. The outer peripheral edges of the inner wall 12 and the outer wall 14 in the transverse direction X are connected to each other by a side wall 16, 18 which is substantially parallel to the height direction Y. The first side wall 16 lies in the transverse direction X with respect to the second side wall 18. The plane of symmetry L is substantially parallel to the side walls 16, 18 and is arranged centrally between them. Through the inner wall 12, the first side wall 16, the outer wall 14 and the second side wall 18, which are interconnected, a chamber 20 is formed or limited.

The first side wall 16, the second side wall 18 and the outer wall 14 each have a first wall thickness s1. The inner wall 12 has a second wall thickness s2.

The transitions or connecting portions of the side walls 16, 18 to the outer wall 14 are respectively rounded according to the first embodiment in the cross-sectional view, here formed substantially in the form of a quarter circle. By the two side walls 16, 18 and the outer wall 14, therefore, a U-shape (U-configuration) is provided, on which the inner wall 12 is placed as a cover. The transitions or connecting portions between the side walls 16, 18 and the inner wall 12 are therefore in cross section to the longitudinal direction Z substantially at right angles, with a rounded connecting portion on the chamber 20 side facing formed. The hollow profile body 10 is preferably produced integrally by extrusion.

The outer wall 14 is slightly concave with respect to the chamber 20 in this embodiment. That is, the outer wall 14 is curved in the direction of the interior of the chamber 20 in the height direction Y to form a curvature 21. The outer wall 14 is in the Center with respect to its edges in the transverse direction X, ie in the region of the plane of symmetry L, curved inwardly towards the chamber 20 by a second height h2.

Also, the inner wall 12 is slightly concave with respect to the chamber 20 in this embodiment. That the inner wall 12 is curved in the direction of the interior of the chamber 20 in the height direction Y to form a curvature 121. The inner wall 12 is centered with respect to its edges in the transverse direction X, i. in the region of the plane of symmetry L, curved inwardly towards the chamber 20 by a third height h3.

Preferably, the bulges 21 are already formed during the extrusion in the plastic. But they can also be formed directly after the extrusion or in a subsequent Rollumformvorgang.

In this embodiment, directly on the hollow profile body 10, in each case, on a large part of the outer surfaces of the side walls 16, 18 remote from the chamber 20 and a part of the outer wall of the outer wall 14 remote from the chamber, two reinforcing layers 22, 24 extend. A first reinforcing layer 22 extends in one piece and continuous in the longitudinal direction Z with constant cross-section directly on the (the chamber facing away) outside of the first side wall 16 from just below the inner wall 12 to and directly on the first side wall 16 facing part of the (the chamber facing away) outside of the outer wall 14th A second reinforcing layer 24 extends integrally and continuously in the longitudinal direction Z with a constant cross section directly on the (side facing away from the chamber) outside of the second side wall 18 from just below the inner wall 12 to and directly on the second side wall 18 facing part of the ( Chamber off The first reinforcing layer 22 is formed from a first diffusion-proof metal material having a first specific thermal conductivity λ ₁ , and the second reinforcing layer 24 is formed from a second diffusion-proof metal material having a second specific thermal conductivity λ ₂ .

As far as the term "diffusion-tightness" or "diffusion-tight" is used herein with respect to the spacer profile or the spacer profile forming materials, in the following description are preferred both vapor diffusion tightness and gas diffusion tightness for the gases in question (for example, nitrogen, oxygen, Water, etc., especially argon). Gas or vapor diffusion-tight are the materials used, if preferably not more than 1% of the gases in the space between the panes 153 can escape within one year. Diffusion-tight is synonymous with low diffusion in the sense that the corresponding test standard EN 1279 Part 2 + 3 is preferably met. This means that the finished spacer profile preferably complies with the test standard EN 1279 part 2 + 3.

The first and second reinforcing layers 22, 24 do not touch. The reinforcing layers 22, 24 are formed and arranged so as to be spaced apart from each other with respect to the transverse direction X at a first distance a1. That between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 remains on the outside of the outer wall 14 a with respect to the transverse direction X central region 25, which extends in the transverse direction X over the first distance a1, free. In this embodiment, the central area 25 has a second width b2 in the transverse direction X, which corresponds to the first distance a1. In or on this central region 25 no reinforcing layer is formed or arranged.

The reinforcing layers 22, 24 extend in this embodiment symmetrically with respect to the plane of symmetry L, so that the first reinforcing layer 22 and the second reinforcing layer 24 each have a distance al / 2 to the plane of symmetry L. The reinforcing layers 22, 24 are materially connected directly to the corresponding walls. As far as the term "cohesively directly connected" or "connected" is used here, in the following description is meant a direct connection without further intermediate layers. Specifically, this means in the present embodiment that the hollow profile body 10 and the reinforcing layers 22, 24 are permanently interconnected, for example, by coextruding the hollow profile body 10 together with the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and / or optionally using adhesion promoters and no further layers between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the hollow profile body 10 are formed.

The first reinforcing layer 22 has a constant first thickness d1. The second reinforcing layer 24 has a constant second thickness d2. The first thickness d1 and the second thickness d2 are the same in the present embodiment. Since the reinforcing layers 22, 24 are respectively formed on the outside of the outer wall 14, in this embodiment, it increases the height of the hollow profile body 10 in the height direction Y by the amount of the thickness d1 or d2, so that the spacer profile 1 has an overall height h4 = h1 + d1. The first width b1 does not change since the hollow profile body 10 is formed at the edges in the transverse direction X in this embodiment such that the reinforcing layers 22, 24 do not increase the first width b1. That is, the region of the side walls 16, 18, on which no reinforcing layers 22, 24 are formed, is correspondingly wider.

The reinforcing layers 22, 24 in the first embodiment have, at their end regions opposite to the outer wall 14 in the height direction Y, extended extension portions 28 extending in the longitudinal direction Z. The extension portions 28 extend the reinforcing layers 22, 24 in the height direction Y from just below the inner wall 12. The term "profiled" in this context means that the extension portion 28 is not exclusively a linear extension of the respective reinforcing layer 22, 24 in the height direction Y. but that in the two-dimensional representation of the cross section in the XY plane, a two-dimensional profile is formed, the example has one or more bends 29 of the extension portion 28.

In this embodiment, the extension portions 28 at the level of the inner wall 12 a 90 ° bend 29 in the direction of the plane of symmetry L in the inner wall 12. That the extension section 28 protrudes into the inner wall 12. It further has a groove 30 in the two-dimensional representation of the cross section in the X-Y plane. The extension portion 28 protrudes with a first length 11 in the transverse direction X from the outside of the corresponding side wall 16, 18 of the hollow profile body 10 in the inner wall 12 a.

The extension sections 28 serve for improved bending behavior and improved adhesion of the reinforcement layers 22, 24, or in the hollow profile body 10. It is preferred if the extension sections 28 are as close as possible to the outside of the inner wall 12 facing away from the chamber 20 (as close as possible to the space between the panes 53), but covered by the material of the inner wall 12 are arranged. The extension sections 28 are each received in a receiving area 31. Such a receiving area 31 is formed by the inner wall 12 and / or side wall 16, 18 and extends from the outside of the inner wall 12 in the same and, if necessary, the corresponding side wall 16, 18 over a height in the height direction Y, which is smaller than 0, 4 h1, more preferably less than 0.2 h1 and more preferably less than 0.1 h1. The specified height of the receiving areas 31 also defines the beginning of the extension sections 28. In the transverse direction X, the receiving areas 31 have at least the thickness s 1 of the side walls 16, 18. The receiving regions preferably extend from the outer surface of the side walls 16, 18 facing away from the chamber over a width of <1.5 11, more preferably over a width <1.211 and more preferably over a width of 1.1 11 in the transverse direction X.

Optionally, the inner wall 12 and / or the side walls 16, 18 in the region of the receiving areas 31 have an increased wall thickness. This is exemplary in the FIG. 5, 6 . 8 and 10 shown.

The mass of the respective extension portion 28 is preferably at least 10% of the mass of the remainder of the respective reinforcing layer 22, 24 located above the center line of the spacer profile 1 in the height direction Y, preferably at least about 20%, more preferably at least 50%, and still more preferably at least 100%.

On the area of the outside of the outer wall 14, on which no reinforcing layer 22, 24 is provided, ie on the transverse direction X central region 25, which extends over the first distance a1 in the transverse direction X, a diffusion barrier layer 26 is preferably made of a third diffusion-tight metal material with a third specific thermal conductivity λ ₃ applied directly. However, the diffusion barrier layer 26 may also be formed from another diffusion-proof material, for example a diffusion-proof plastic material. Such a plastic material is, for example, an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, also referred to as EVOH. Preferably, the sold under the name "SoarnoL" EVOH material from NIPPON GOSHEI is used. More preferably the product sold under the product name "SoarnoL 29mol%". More preferably, the diffusion barrier layer 26 is formed of multiple layers. The layers comprise at least a first layer of EVOH material and a second layer of polyolefin, for example PE or PP. The first and the second layer are preferably connected by means of a bonding agent.

The diffusion barrier layer 26 extends in the transverse direction X over the first distance a1 between the first reinforcing layer 22 and the second reinforcing layer 24 and in FIG Longitudinal direction Z with a constant cross-sectional shape in a section XY perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L over the entire length of the spacer profile 1. The diffusion barrier layer 26 has a third thickness d3, which is smaller than the first thickness d1 and the second thickness d2 in this embodiment. The diffusion barrier layer 26 is diffusion-bonded to the first reinforcing layer 22 and the second reinforcing layer 24. The diffusion barrier layer 26, for example, by vapor deposition, lamination, gluing, welding, sputtering, galvanizing or rolling with the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the outside of the outer wall 14 directly connected diffusion-tight. Preferably, the diffusion barrier layer 26 is connected to the outside of the outer wall 14 directly cohesively. At its edges in the transverse direction X, for example, it is connected to the reinforcing layers 22, 24 by a bonding agent. Alternatively, the edges of the diffusion barrier layer 26 are welded to the edges of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, for example, or joined directly by vapor deposition.

The diffusion barrier layer 26 is therefore connected directly in the region of the outer wall 14, in which the reinforcing layers 22, 24 are not connected to the outer wall 14. The outer wall is therefore completely covered by the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the diffusion barrier layer 26.

The diffusion barrier layer 26 serves to diffusion-seal the first reinforcement layer 22 to the second reinforcement layer 24. At the same time, the diffusion barrier layer 26 serves to thermally insulate the first reinforcement layer 22 from the second reinforcement layer 24. The heat conduction through the diffusion barrier layer 26 is less than that through the reinforcing layers 22, 24. The heat conduction, ie the thermal conductivity is dependent on the geometry and specific thermal conductivity of a component. The diffusion barrier layer 26 is formed such that the product of the third thickness d3 and the specific third thermal conductivity λ _{3 of} the diffusion barrier layer 26 is both smaller than the product of the first thickness d1 having the first specific thermal conductivity λ _{1 of} the first reinforcement layer 22, as well as the product of the second thickness d2 having the second specific thermal conductivity λ _{2 of} the second reinforcing layer 24. This condition does not exclude that the third specific thermal conductivity λ ₃ or the third thickness d3 are larger than the respective sizes of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, since the size of the Product can be corrected by the other, correspondingly reduced, factor. For example by means of a very thin, eg vapor-deposited diffusion barrier layer 26 made of aluminum, which has a very high third specific thermal conductivity λ ₃ , at a very small third thickness d3 (by vapor deposition) form an insulating as well as diffusion-tight connection between the reinforcement layers 22, 24 the above relation of the products to each other is fulfilled.

The spacer profile 1 therefore has a diffusion-tight diffusion barrier 27 which is formed from the first reinforcing layer 22, the diffusion barrier layer 26 and the second reinforcing layer 24 and extends from the first side wall 16 via the outer wall 14 to the second side wall 18. Therefore, the space between the panes 53 in the installed state of the spacer profile 1 can be limited by the spacer profile 1 diffusion-tight.

The side walls 16, 18 in the illustrated embodiment further each have a notch 32 on the chamber facing the inside of the respective side wall 16, 18. The notches 32 are formed below the center line in the height direction Y of the spacer profile 1 and extend in the longitudinal direction Z. The notches 32 serve for improved bending behavior, as will be explained below.

In the inner wall 12 openings 34 are formed, so that the inner wall 12 is not formed diffusion-independent, regardless of the choice of material for the hollow profile body 10. In the assembled state, a gas exchange, in particular a moisture exchange, between the disc space 53 and filled with hygroscopic material chamber 20 can be ensured through the openings 34 of the spacer profile 1.

The inner wall 12 is referred to as an inner wall, since it is turned inward in the installed state of the spacer profile 1 to a disc space 53 (see FIG. 1a ) and b)). The outer wall 14 is referred to as the outer wall, since it faces away from the space between the panes 53 in the installed state of the spacer profile 1. The side walls 16, 18 are formed as contact webs for contact with the inner sides of the disks 51, 52, via which the spacer profile 1 is preferably glued to the inner sides of the disks (see also FIG. 1 ). The chamber 20 is designed to receive hygroscopic material.

The spacer profile 1 is preferably formed by four 90 ° bends to a one-piece spacer frame 50 (see FIG. 2 ) bent. Alternatively, one, two or three bends may be provided and, if necessary, the remaining 90 ° corners may be formed from corner joints. The spacer profiles 1 are preferably bent in a guided cold bending process. For example, the spacer profile 1 is inserted in bending in a groove which guides or supports the side walls in the transverse direction X. This ensures that the side walls can not escape outward in bending in the transverse direction X when bending.

When bending the spacer profile 1, the inner wall 12 is normally compressed or shortened. The outer wall 14 is stretched. Between the inner wall 12 and the outer wall 14 there is a neutral zone in which the material of the body is neither stretched nor compressed. The neutral zone is also referred to as a "neutral fiber" of a body.

Due to the curved formation of the outer wall 14 it is ensured that the outer wall 14 in the guided bending of the spacer profile 1 "folds in" (see FIG. 15 ). "Collapse" here means that the outer wall 14 is displaced in the direction of the chamber 20, ie in the direction of the neutral fiber. In addition, the notches 32 in the side walls 16, 18 when bending the spacer profile 1 ensure that the outer wall 14 can easily and far fold inwards.

In particular, in order for the diffusion barrier layer 26 to break when bent due to the expansion usually occurring on the outside of a bent body, the central area 25 extending over the first distance a1 (area of the outer wall 14 on which no reinforcing layer 22, 24 is formed) is in the transverse direction X, the bulge 21 of the outer wall 14, ie, the second height h2, the first and second wall thicknesses d1, d2 of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, the wall thicknesses s1 , s2 of the chamber 20, and the notches 32 are formed such that the diffusion barrier layer 26 in the bending process by 90 ° about the bending axis parallel to the transverse direction X, substantially on the "neutral fiber" of the spacer profile 1 is located. That is, the diffusion barrier layer 26 is not stretched in bending because the diffusion barrier layer 26 is on the neutral fiber of the spacer profile 1. The bending stress is approximately zero there. The diffusion barrier layer 26 therefore has to meet only very simple mechanical requirements and it can be ensured that the diffusion barrier layer 26 does not break during bending and thus leaks. The reinforcing layers 22, 24, in particular their thicknesses d1, d2, are designed such that they do not break when the spacer profile 10 is bent. The diffusion barrier 27 of the first reinforcing layer 22, the diffusion barrier layer 26 and the second reinforcing layer 24 therefore remains diffusion-tight even after the bending process.

Even with the inner wall 12, the curved formation ensures a "slight" folding. The inner wall 12 largely compressed. Alternatively or additionally, wrinkling may occur, so that the length is correspondingly shorter. The extension portions 28 reduce wrinkling at the edges in the transverse direction X.

The plastic material of the hollow profile body 10 is preferably an elastically plastically deformable, poorly heat-conducting (insulating) material.

The term "elastically plastically deformable" here preferably means that in the material after the bending process elastic restoring forces are effective, as is typically the case for plastics, but that part of the bending takes place via a plastic, non-reversible deformation. Furthermore, the term "poorly heat-conducting" here preferably means that the specific thermal conductivity λ is less than or equal to 0.3 W / (mK).

Such material is preferably polyolefins, more preferably polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyamide, copolyamide or polycarbonate, ABS, SAN, PCABS. An example of such a polypropylene is Novolen® 1040 ^®. The material preferably has an E-modulus of less than or equal to 2200 N / mm ² and a specific thermal conductivity λ ≦ 0.3 W / (mK), preferably ≦ 0.2 W / (mK).

The first metal material is preferably a plastically deformable material. The term "plastically deformable" here means that act after the deformation virtually no elastic restoring forces. This is typically the case when bending metals beyond the yield point. The preferred first metal material for the reinforcing layer 22 is steel or stainless steel and has a first specific thermal conductivity in the range of 10 W / (mK) ≦ λ ₁ ≦ 50 W / (mK), preferably in the range of 10 W / (mK) ≦ λ ₁ ≦ 25 W / (mK), and more preferably in the range of 14 W / (mK) ≦ λ ≦ 17 W / (mK). The modulus of elasticity of this material is preferred in the range of 170 kN / mm ² to 240 kN / mm ² , more preferably 210 kN / mm ² . The elongation at break of the material is preferably ≥15%, more preferably ≥20%, still more preferably ≥30% and even more preferably ≥40%. The metal material may have corrosion protection of tin (such as tinplate) or zinc, if necessary, if necessary or desired, with a chromium coating or chromate coating. The second metal material of the second reinforcing layer 24 preferably corresponds to the first metal material, but especially if the shapes and thicknesses of the two reinforcing layers 22, 24 are different, may also be a metal material other than the first metal material. An example of a reinforcing layer 22, 24 is a stainless steel foil having a thickness d1, d2 of 0.10 mm.

The diffusion-proof preferred metal material for the diffusion barrier layer 26 is e.g. Steel or stainless steel, vapor-deposited aluminum or sputtered aluminum. Alternatively, the diffusion barrier layer can also be formed from a diffusion-tight multilayer plastic film with metal coating or a metal layer transfer film. That the diffusion barrier layer 26 may be formed of plastic with an embedded continuous metal layer.

The metal material for the diffusion barrier layer 26 has a specific third thermal conductivity in the range of 10 W / (mK) ≦ λ ₃ ≦ 250 W / (mK) and preferably in the range of 14 W / (mK) (stainless steel) ≦ λ ₃ ≦ 200 W / (mK) (aluminum). An example of a metal diffusion barrier layer 26 is, for example, a stainless steel foil having a thickness d3 of 0.01 mm, an aluminum foil having a thickness d3 of 0.001 mm to 0.01 mm, or a vapor-deposited or sputtered aluminum layer having a thickness d3 of less than 10 nm. It should be noted that the thickness d3 indicates only the thickness of the metal layer. In the case of a diffusion barrier layer made of plastic with an embedded metal layer or a multilayer film, the diffusion barrier layer is correspondingly thicker.

To produce the spacer 1, the hollow profile body 10 is preferably coextruded together with the first and second reinforcing layers 22, 24. The first and second reinforcing layers 22, 24 are connected to the hollow profile body 10 in a material-locking manner after the extrusion process. The first and second reinforcing layers 22, 24 are spaced apart from each other at the first distance a1 in the transverse direction X on the outside of the outer wall 14. In a further step, the diffusion barrier layer 26 on the central Region 25 over the first distance a1 on the outside of the outer wall 14, which is not connected to the reinforcing layer 22, 24 applied diffusion-tight. For example, the diffusion barrier layer 26 is vapor-deposited, glued, sputtered, laminated or galvanized. The diffusion barrier layer 26 is thereby connected at its edges in the transverse direction X with the respective reinforcing layer 22, 24 diffusion-tight. After applying the diffusion barrier layer 26, the first reinforcing layer 22, the diffusion barrier layer 26 and the second reinforcing layer 24 form a continuous diffusion barrier 27.

After the spacer profile 1 has been produced, it becomes the shape of the desired spacer frame 50, as exemplified in FIG FIG. 2 is shown, bent. During bending, as described above, the side walls 16, 18 are preferably guided, so that they can not escape in the transverse direction X by the bending process. After bending the spacer frame 50, the ends must be secured by means of a suitable connector 54 (see FIG FIG. 2 ) get connected. After joining the spacer profile 1, the side walls 16, 18 designed as contact webs are adhesively bonded to the inner sides of the panes 51, 52 by an adhesive material (primary sealant) 61, eg a butyl sealant based on polyisobutylene (see FIG. 1 ). The disc space 53 is thus bounded by both discs 51, 52 and the spacer frame 50. The inside of the spacer frame 50 faces the disc space 53. On the in FIG. 1 in the height direction Y facing away from the space between the panes 53, a mechanically stabilizing sealing material (secondary adhesive), for example based on polysulfide, polyuretan or silicone, for filling the clear space is introduced into the remaining clear space between the panes. This sealing material also protects the diffusion barrier 27 from mechanical and other corrosive / deteriorating influences. The Isolierscheibeneinheit thus prepared can then be installed in a window frame.

All statements on the first embodiment also apply to all other described embodiments, except where expressly a difference is described or shown in the figures.

The FIG. 3b ) shows a spacer profile 1 according to a second embodiment. The only difference with the spacer profile 1 according to the first embodiment is the reinforcing layers 22, 24 are formed such that the first distance a1 between the reinforcing layers 22 and 24 in the transverse direction X is greater than in the transverse direction FIG. 3a ) shown embodiment. That is, the first reinforcing layer 22 and the second reinforcing layer 24 are formed substantially only to the edge portions of the outer wall 14 in the transverse direction X, and the diffusion barrier layer 26 extends over the first wider distance a1 in the transverse direction X compared to the first embodiment Diffusion barrier layer 26 is substantially completely on the neutral fiber of the spacer profile 1 according to the previous embodiments.

FIG. 4a ) shows spacer profile 1 according to a third embodiment. The spacer profile 1 according to the third embodiment is formed in a so-called "W configuration". In the W configuration, the sidewalls 16 each have a concave connecting portion 40 to the outer wall 14 when viewed from within the chamber 20. Since the reinforcing layers 22, 24 extend on the outside of the side walls 16, 18 as far as the outside of the outer wall 14, the reinforcing layers 22, 24 also have a corresponding concave connecting section 40. The concave connecting portion 40 leads to an extension of the reinforcing layers 22, 24 at the same first width b1 and first height h1 of the spacer profile 1. By the elongated reinforcing layers 22, 24, the heat conduction through the reinforcing layers 22, 24 over the first embodiment (U configuration ) despite the same height h1 and width b1 reduced. In addition, the flexural rigidity of the spacer profile 1 is further improved due to the changed structure. Due to the concave connecting portions 40, the bulge 21 in the outer wall 14 can be dispensed with. In bending, the region having the diffusion barrier layer 26 folds inwardly toward the chamber 20. The region comprising the diffusion barrier layer 26 lies on the neutral fiber of the spacer.

The remaining spacer profile 1 corresponds to that in the FIG. 3a ) shown. The in the FIG. 4b ) fourth embodiment differs from that in the FIG. 4a ) shown in that the first distance a1 relative to in FIG. 4a ) illustrated embodiment is enlarged. As a result, the heat conduction can be reduced again.

The fifth to twelfth embodiments described below each have in particular a diffusion-tight diffusion barrier 27, which consists of the first reinforcing layer 22, the diffusion barrier layer 26 and the second reinforcing layer 24 is formed. Further, in all the illustrated embodiments, the diffusion barrier layer 26, when bent about an axis parallel to the transverse direction X, lies on the neutral fiber of the spacer profile 1 FIG. 5 to 14 For simplicity, none of the optional notches 32 and bulges 21, 121 are shown.

In the in FIG. 5a ) and b) shown fifth embodiment, the extension portion 28 has a bend 29 of 90 ° according to the first and second embodiments and an adjoining portion (flange) extending in the transverse direction X from the outer edge of the corresponding side wall 16, 18 via a Length 11 extends inwards. In contrast to the first embodiment, the extension section 28 has no additional profiling in the form of a groove extending in the longitudinal direction Z, but runs in a straight line.

In the FIG. 6a ) and b) a spacer profile 1 according to a sixth embodiment is shown in cross section in the XY plane. The sixth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the extension portions 28 are almost twice as long as in the first embodiment, with the extension length 11 in the transverse direction X remaining almost the same. This is achieved in that the extension portions 28 have a second bend 29 by 180 °. The second bend 29 by 180 ° is formed with the distance 11 from the outside of the corresponding side wall 16, 18, so that the portion of the extension portion 28, which adjoins the second bend 29, also in the transverse direction X, but to the outside extends. This ensures that a much longer extension section is arranged in the inner wall 12 of the spacer profile 1, resulting in improved bending properties. In addition, this part of the material of the hollow profile body 10 is enclosed on three sides by the formed by the extension portions 28 profiles. This containment causes the encapsulated material to act as a substantially incompressible volume element during a buckling bending operation. This results in an improved bending behavior or stiffness behavior.

With reference to the FIG. 7a ) and b) a spacer profile 1 is described according to a seventh embodiment, wherein in the FIG. 7c ) and d) in a) or b) of a circle surrounded areas are shown enlarged. When in the FIG. 7 As shown, the extension portions 28 do not protrude into the inner wall 12, but are provided on the outer side of the inner wall 12. The extension portions 28 are in a very advantageous for the bending behavior position, but visible in the installed state for a consumer.

FIG. 8a ) and b) are cross-sectional views of a spacer profile 1 according to an eighth embodiment. The eighth embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the bend 29 is not a 90 ° bend but a 180 ° bend, so that the part of the extension portion 28 adjoining the bend 29 extends in the height direction Y. In this way, according to the sixth embodiment, a three-sided enclosure of a portion of the material of the hollow profile body 10 is achieved, although only one bend 29 is present. This leads to improved bending behavior and stiffness behavior.

In the FIG. 9a ) and b) are cross-sectional views of a spacer profile holder 1 according to a ninth embodiment. The ninth embodiment differs from the eighth embodiment only in that the radius of curvature of the extension portions 28 is smaller than in the eighth embodiment.

In the FIG. 10a ) and b) are cross-sectional views of a spacer profile 1 according to a tenth embodiment. The tenth embodiment differs from the first to ninth embodiments in that the extension portions 28 first make a bend 29 inward by about 45 ° and then a bend 29 about 45 ° in the opposite direction and then a bend 29 of 180 ° ° with the corresponding three-sided inclusion of a part of the material of the hollow profile body 10.

If the spacer profile 1 or the extension portion 28 curved and / or angled configurations according to FIG. 3 to 10 , the length (in the cross section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of the extension portion 28, and thus the mass of the reinforcing layer additionally introduced in this portion or region of the spacer profile, can be increased significantly. This results in a reduced wrinkling during bending. Furthermore, slack is significantly reduced as the curved, angled and / or folded extension portion significantly contributes to the strength of the structural integrity of the bent spacer frame.

FIG. 11a ) and b) show a spacer profile 1 according to an eleventh embodiment in a W and a U configuration. The spacer profile 1 of this embodiment has no extension portions 28.

FIG. 12a ) and b) show a spacer profile 1 according to a twelfth embodiment. This spacer profile 1 differs from that in the FIG. 10a ) and b) shown tenth embodiment in that the 180 ° bend 29 and the adjoining part of the Verlängerurigsabschnitts 28 are not present.

In FIG. 13 is a further alternative embodiment in a plan view, seen in the Y direction from below, shown. In this embodiment, there is only one reinforcing layer 22, 24 extending on the sidewalls 16, 18 and the outer wall 14. The reinforcing layer 22, 24 has recesses 35 which are separated by transverse webs 36. Each recess is formed centrally between the side walls 16, 18 and has the second width b2 in the transverse direction X. The height of the recesses in the longitudinal direction Z is given by a second distance a2 of the transverse webs 36 to each other. The transverse webs 36 themselves extend with a second length 12 in the longitudinal direction Z. The transverse webs 36 and the recesses 35 are preferably arranged regularly in the longitudinal direction Z. The reinforcement layer 22, 24 may also have a different thickness / thickness in the height direction Y in the region of the transverse webs 36. The diffusion barrier layer 26 is applied at least to the areas of the outer wall 14 not covered by the reinforcing layers 22, 24 between the transverse webs 36 and the reinforcing layer 22, 24. The diffusion barrier layer can be applied to the transverse webs 36 to simplify the production. In such an embodiment, the upper limit of the load in the transverse direction X, or the compressive / tensile force that can withstand the spacer profile in the transverse direction X, without being deformed or broken, is increased. Furthermore, it can be easily ensured that the diffusion barrier layer 26 lies in the neutral fiber.

FIG. 14 FIG. 12 shows another embodiment not having all of the claimed features in which the reinforcement layers 22, 24 are completely received in the sidewalls 16, 18 and partially in the outer wall 14.

FIG. 17 shows in a) to d) the fifteenth to nineteenth embodiment. In these embodiments, the diffusion barrier layer 266 is not formed of a metal material but of a plastic material. The plastic material is diffusion-tight. Such a diffusion-proof plastic material is, for example, an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, which is also referred to as EVOH. Such an EVOH material preferably has a third specific thermal conductivity λ ₃₃ between 0.25 W / (mK) and 0.40 W / (mK).

Because of this low third specific thermal conductivity λ ₃₃ , the diffusion barrier layer 266 of EVOH material may have a larger third thickness d33 compared to the metal material of the previous embodiments and at the same time allow high or higher thermal insulation. Again, however, so that an improvement of the thermal insulation is achieved compared to a continuous reinforcing layer, the product of the third specific thermal conductivity λ ₃₃ and the third thickness d33 smaller than the product of the first specific thermal conductivity λ ₁ and the first thickness d1 and less than be the product of the second specific thermal conductivity λ ₂ and the second thickness d2.

Preferably, the sold under the name "SoarnoL" EVOH material from NIPPON GOSHEI is used. This product is offered with different ethylene contents. For example, "SoarnoL V" (25 mol% ethylene) "SoarnoL DC" (32 mol% ethylene) "SoarnoL ET" (38 mol% ethylene) "SoarnoL AT" (44 mol% ethylene) or "SoarnoL H" (48 mol% ethylene) is used , More preferably, the material sold under the product name "SoarnoL 29 mol%" or "SoarnoL DT" or "SoarnoL D" with 29 mol% of ethylene is used.

Such a "SoarnoL 29mol%" or "SoarnoL DT" or "SoarnoL D" has a specific third thermal conductivity λ ₃₃ = 0.33 W / (mK) at 60 ° C or = 0.28 W / (mK) at 120 ° C. In the fifteenth to nineteenth embodiments, the third thickness d33 of the diffusion barrier layer 266 of EVOH material is substantially larger than the third thickness d3 of the diffusion barrier layer 26 of metal material in the first to fourteenth embodiments. Due to the larger thickness d33, the diffusion barrier layer 266 is much more resistant (more stretch-resistant, more tear-resistant) than the very thin metal layer / foil used in the above embodiments. Thus, in the fifteenth to nineteenth embodiments, there is not necessarily a need to form the spacer profile 1 such that the diffusion barrier layer 266 lies on the neutral fiber of the spacer profile 1 when the spacer profile 1 is bent. For this reason, the bulges 21, 121 and notches 32 are optional features.

If the diffusion barrier layer 266 according to the first to fourteenth embodiments is formed with a very small third thickness d33 of 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm, it is preferable that the spacer profile 1 according to the first to fourteenth embodiments is also formed such that the diffusion barrier layer 266 of EVOH material lies in bending the spacer profile 1 in the neutral fiber.

As above, the diffusion barrier layers 266 in the fifteenth to nineteenth embodiments extend in the longitudinal direction Z in a uniform cross-sectional shape in a section X-Y perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Z over the entire length of the spacer profile and are arranged symmetrically to the plane of symmetry L.

In the in FIG. 17a 15), the diffusion barrier layer 266 extends in the transverse direction X with a third width b3 over the first distance a1 between the first reinforcing layer 22 and the second reinforcing layer 24. The diffusion barrier layer 266 has a third thickness d33 in this embodiment. The third thickness d33 in this embodiment preferably corresponds to the first thickness d1 of the first reinforcing layer 22 and the second thickness d2 of the second reinforcing layers 22, 24, which are equal here (d1 = d2).

The diffusion barrier layer 266 is connected to the outer wall 14 directly, for example by coextrusion, lamination or by means of adhesion promoter diffusion-tight. Preferably, the diffusion barrier layer 266 and the outer wall 14 are materially connected. According to the first to fourteenth embodiments, the diffusion barrier layer 266 is also at its edges in the transverse direction X with the first and second reinforcing layers, respectively 22, 24 diffusion-tight, for example by means of adhesion promoter or by welding diffusion-tight, preferably materially connected. Also in this embodiment, a continuous diffusion barrier 27 is formed by the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the diffusion barrier layer 266. The diffusion barrier layer 266 and the reinforcing layers 22, 24 provide a substantially continuous plane.

In the in Fig. 17b 16), the diffusion barrier layer 266 is formed in a "pedestal" manner or in a reverse "T" shape in a space between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 on the outer wall 14. The gap extends between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and is bounded on both sides in the transverse direction X by the edges of the reinforcing layers 22, 24 facing each other in the transverse direction X on the outer wall. In the height direction Y, the intermediate space is bounded on one side by the outside of the outer wall 14 facing away from the inner wall 12.

The diffusion barrier layer 266 has a first region 70 and a second region 71. The first region 70 corresponds to the diffusion barrier layer 266 of the sixteenth embodiment. As above, the width of the first region 70 corresponds to the first distance a1 between the reinforcing layers 22, 24. A fourth thickness d4 of the first region 70 in the height direction Y preferably corresponds to the thickness d1, d2 of the reinforcing layers 22, 24.

In the height direction Y on the side facing away from the outer wall 14, the second region 71, which extends over a third width b3, which is greater than the first distance a1 between the reinforcing layers 22, 24, is formed adjacent to the first region. The second region 71 is formed overlapping the reinforcing layers 22, 24 over a width (b3-a1) / 2, respectively. The second region 71 has a fifth thickness d5. The first region 70 and the second region 71 are integrally formed.

In the area between the reinforcing layers 22, 24, the diffusion barrier layer 266 has a total thickness d33 = d4 + d5 that is greater than the thickness d1, d2 of the reinforcing layers. The diffusion barrier layer 266 may be coextruded with the hollow profile body 10 and the reinforcing layers 22, 24 together. Alternatively, it can also after the application of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, for example by means of adhesion promoter or by Laminating with the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and / or the outer wall 14 are preferably connected diffusion-tight.

The total height h4 of the spacer profile in this case (without taking account of the optional curvature 21) is the sum of the first h1 of the hollow profile body 10 and the third thickness d33 of the diffusion barrier layer 266.

FIG. 17c 5 shows a seventeenth embodiment which, like the sixteenth embodiment, has a diffusion barrier layer 266 having a first region 70 formed between the reinforcing layers 22, 24. In this embodiment, a second region 71 is not formed on the side of the reinforcing layers 22, 24 facing away from the outer wall 14, but opposite, on the side of the first region 70 facing the outer wall 14. The diffusion barrier layer 266 therefore extends between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and partially on the inner wall 14 facing side of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, between them and the outer wall 14. The widths in the transverse direction X and the thicknesses in the height direction Y of the first Area 70 and second area 71 preferably correspond to those of the sixteenth embodiment. Thus, the areas 72 overlapping with the reinforcing layers 22, 24 also have the dimensions of the sixteenth embodiment.

Since the fourth thickness d4 of the diffusion barrier layer 266 corresponds to the thickness d1, d2 of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, a substantially continuous / continuous plane is formed by the diffusion barrier layer 266 and the reinforcing layer (neglecting the bulge 21). The outer wall 14 has a reduced wall thickness (s1-d5) in the region in which the diffusion barrier layer 266 is formed. The second region 71 of the diffusion barrier layer 266 is preferably completely enclosed by the outer wall.

At the in FIG. 17d ), the diffusion barrier layer 266 substantially coincides with the second region 71 of the seventeenth embodiment. The diffusion barrier layer 266 has a third thickness d33 in the height direction Y and a third width b3 in the transverse direction X. The third width b3 is larger than the first distance a1. The diffusion barrier layer 266 has a rectangular cross section as seen in the XY plane, and is completely surrounded by the outer wall 14. The outer wall 14 has Therefore, in the region between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 has a smaller wall thickness (s1-d33).

The diffusion barrier layer 266 is arranged symmetrically with respect to the axis of symmetry L so as to be disposed across a width (b3-a1) / 2 between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the outer wall 14, respectively. overlaps with the reinforcing layers in the transverse direction X. The diffusion barrier layer 266 is not formed in the plane defined by the edge reinforcing layers 22, 24 in the transverse direction X (ignoring the bulge 21) but formed in the height direction Y in the direction of the inner wall 12 adjacent to this plane.

In the in FIG. 17e ) Nineteenth Embodiment, the diffusion barrier layer 266 is formed with a rectangular cross section as seen in the XY plane. The diffusion barrier layer has a third thickness d33 in the height direction Y and a third width b3 in the transverse direction X. The third width b3 is greater than the first distance a1.

In this embodiment, the wall thickness s1 of the outer wall 14 between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 in the central region 25 on the side facing away from the inner wall 12 by the thickness d1 and d2 is greater. The outer wall 14 forms a continuous plane 73 with the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and intercepts the reinforcing layers 22, 24 at their edges in the transverse direction X.

The diffusion barrier layer 266 is applied or formed symmetrically to the plane of symmetry L on this continuous plane 73. The diffusion barrier layer 266 abuts both the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the outer wall 14 in the region between the reinforcing layers 22, 24.

The in the FIGS. 17c), 17d ) and 17e ) shown diffusion barrier layers 266 can be coextruded either with the hollow profile body 10 or with the hollow profile body 10 and the reinforcing layers 22, 24 together. Alternatively, prior to applying the reinforcing layers 22, 24 to the outer wall 14, they may be applied by primer, by lamination, by welding, etc. (see also first to fourteenth embodiments). Alternatively, they can also after the attachment of the reinforcing layers 22, 24, for example be attached by inserting and gluing. Preferably, at least the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the diffusion barrier layer 266 for forming a continuous diffusion barrier layer 27 by coextrusion, by applying adhesion promoter (see above), preferably materially and diffusion-tight interconnected.

FIG. 18 shows a twentieth embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the entire hollow profile body 10 is formed of the diffusion-tight EVOH material. The diffusion barrier 27 always formed by the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the diffusion barrier layer 26, 266 in the above embodiments is realized by the side walls 16, 18 and the outer wall 14 in this embodiment. The diffusion barrier layer is integrally formed with the outer wall 14 in this embodiment.

Alternatively, only the side walls 16, 18 and the outer wall 14 or only the outer wall 14 may be formed of the EVOH material. The wall thickness of the respective walls made of the EVOH material may be up to 2 mm, but preferably corresponds to that of the first to fourteenth embodiments.

The diffusion-tightness of EVOH material can be adversely affected by contact with water or water vapor, especially with thin EVOH material. EVOH material may tend to absorb water or water vapor. The absorption can also reduce the diffusion-tightness.

In order to avoid this negative effect, it has proved to be advantageous to form the diffusion barrier layer at least in two layers or two layers. A two-layer diffusion barrier layer has a first layer of EVOH material (first layer 74). The first layer of EVOH material is deposited on a carrier layer (second layer 75) which has a very low water permeability or is diffusion-tight with respect to water / water vapor. It may be particularly advantageous if the first layer of EVOH material is protected by the second layer from contact with water. Particularly preferred is an arrangement in which the first layer of the EVOH material is protected from contact with water / water vapor both by the second layer and by the outer wall 14 hollow profile body. In this particularly advantageous embodiment, the first layer is therefore arranged between the outer wall 14 and the second layer.

Polyolefin, more preferably PE and even more preferably PP may be used as the material for the carrier layer.

FIG. 19 shows a section of a spacer profile of such a particularly advantageous twenty-first embodiment of the present invention. The detail shows only the outer wall 14 of the spacer profile 1 in the region in which the diffusion barrier layer between the reinforcing layers 22, 24 is arranged. This embodiment differs from the other embodiments only in that the diffusion barrier layer 266 consists of a first layer 74 formed of a diffusion-tight EVOH material (as above, for example, "SoarnoL") and a second layer 75 of polyolefin, is formed, for example, PE or PP is formed. In the following, various features will be discussed only for these other embodiments.

The diffusion barrier layer 266 of the first and second layers 74, 75 has substantially the shape of the diffusion barrier layer 266 according to the sixteenth embodiment, which in FIG FIG. 17b ) is shown. In the present embodiment, the first layer 74 corresponding to the first region 70 of the sixteenth embodiment is formed between the reinforcing layers 22, 24. The second layer 75 is formed on the first layer 74 corresponding to the second region 71 of the sixteenth embodiment, and partially extends on its edges in the transverse direction X on the sides of the reinforcing layers 22, 24 remote from the outer wall 14. The first layer has a thickness d331 and the second layer has a thickness d332 in the height direction Y. The total thickness d333 preferably corresponds to the thickness d33 but may also be larger or smaller.

The first layer 74 and the second layer 75 are preferably connected to one another by means of adhesion promoter 76 applied between the two layers and / or are preferably formed together by coextrusion. Through the reinforcing layers 22, 24 and the two-layered diffusion barrier layer 266, which is diffusion-tightly connected thereto, a diffusion barrier is produced.

The diffusion barrier layer 266 according to the twenty-first embodiment may also have other shapes. For example, it may correspond to the fifteenth to nineteenth Embodiment be formed. That is, the diffusion barrier layers 266 shown in the fifteenth to nineteenth embodiments may also be made of a first EVOH layer and a second PP or PE layer, respectively. Preferably, each of the first layer 74 of EVOH material is disposed between the second polyolefin layer 75 and the outer wall 14 such that it is protected from contact with water / water vapor. The first layer 74 and the second layer 75 may also be reversed. That is, the first layer 74 may be formed on the side of the second layer 75 facing away from the outer wall 14, and the second layer 75 may be applied directly on the outer wall 14. However, the first layer 74 of the EVOH material in this case is not protected from water or water vapor.

Next, for example, in the in FIG. 17d 11), a PP / PE layer may be applied to the diffusion barrier layer 266 of EVOH material between the reinforcement layers 22, 24 to protect the EVOH material diffusion barrier layer 266 from contact with water / water vapor.

Also in FIG. 18 The twentieth embodiment shown may be modified by applying a layer of polyolefin (eg, PP or PE) on the outer wall 14 between the reinforcing layers 22, 24. As a result, the walls of EVOH material would be protected from contact with water / water vapor, so that an optimal diffusion-tightness would be ensured.

Furthermore, more than two layers of EVOH / PP / PE can be provided.

The features of the various embodiments may also be combined. Further, in one of the first to twentieth embodiments, the reinforcing layers may be formed asymmetrically with respect to each other with respect to the plane of symmetry L. The first reinforcing layer may be different in thickness / thickness relative to the second reinforcing layer, or may be formed of different material. The first or second reinforcing layer may have an extension portion while the other may not have an extension portion. The reinforcing layers may also extend only on the sidewalls and the diffusion barrier layer may extend over the entire outer wall for joining the two reinforcing layers. The reinforcing layers may also optionally extend partially in the sidewalls or the outer wall, but are always connected to the outer wall with the diffusion barrier layer.

The first or second reinforcing layer may extend over a larger portion on the outer wall than the respective other reinforcing layer. That the distance of the central region from the first side wall may be greater than the distance to the second side wall and vice versa.

The central area does not necessarily have to be arranged centrally between the side walls. Due to the non-central arrangement of the central region, the heat conduction can be reduced by the spacer profile. In particular, the heat conduction is reduced when the central area is closer to the "warm", i. inner disc is arranged.

The diffusion barrier layer may be formed overlapping the first and / or second reinforcing layer. That is, for example, the diffusion barrier layer 26 shown in the first to thirteenth embodiments, which is applied directly to the outer wall 14 after extrusion in the central region 25, may also be partially applied to the first and / or second reinforcing layers 22, 24. The diffusion barrier layer may therefore extend integrally at least partially on the first reinforcing layer and the second reinforcing layer and between both on the outer wall. However, according to the construction, the diffusion barrier layer extends only on the region directly on the outer wall, which is not covered by the first or second reinforcing layer. By an overlap, a particularly diffusion-tight formation of the connection between reinforcing layers 22, 24 and diffusion barrier layer 26 is formed.

As an alternative to a notch, the side walls or areas thereof can also have regions which are designed so that a notch can be dispensed with. For example, this can be achieved by making the sidewalls or regions thereof thinner-walled than others. The extension sections can optionally also be omitted (see Fig. 11 ).

As an alternative to the coextrusion of the reinforcing layers with the hollow profile body, the reinforcing layers can be applied directly to the hollow profile body, for example by means of adhesion promoters or adhesives, even after the extrusion of the hollow profile body. Furthermore, the area provided for the reinforcing layer and / or diffusion barrier layer may be formed on the hollow profile body such that no steps are present at the edges and transitions between them after the application of the reinforcing layers and / or the diffusion barrier layer. That is, the areas to which the reinforcing layers are applied, for example, are formed as recesses in the extrusion of the hollow profile body. Accordingly, the reinforcing layers and / or diffusion barrier layer are inserted in these recesses.

The hollow profile body may also be trapezoidal, square, diamond-shaped or otherwise formed. The concave bulges may take other shapes, for example be doubly bulged, be asymmetrically bulged, etc. In particular, the spacer profile may also be formed such that the side walls do not represent the outermost in the transverse direction X walls to rest against the discs. Such a configuration could, for example, be designed as follows: the spacer profile has a wider inner wall compared to the outer wall. The side walls are not connected to the edges of the inner wall in the transverse direction X but are slightly offset in the transverse direction X inwards. The outer wall connected to the side walls, the side walls and the inner wall form the chamber. In addition, at the edges of the inner wall in the transverse direction X two further, parallel to the side walls extending additional (side) outer walls are formed, which serve as a bearing surface for the discs. The reinforcing layers are in such an embodiment wholly or partly formed in or on the additional outer walls and the side walls and the inner wall. The diffusion barrier layer connects the reinforcing layers diffusion-tight with each other.

The wall thicknesses s1, s2 of the side walls 22, 24 and / or the outer wall 26 may also be formed differently from each other. The openings 34 may also be asymmetrical to the symmetry line L, as in FIG Fig. 15 shown to be formed only centrally or only on one side with respect to the transverse direction X. The openings may be arranged regularly or irregularly in the longitudinal direction Z. The openings may be formed in one or more rows with respect to the transverse direction X.

In or on the inner wall may be at least partially provided a further reinforcing layer of a metal material. The extension portions 28 may be bent, angled, etc. in any shape, or may be asymmetrical with each other. The chamber can also be divided by intermediate walls into several chambers. The cross section of the reinforcing layers need not necessarily be constant, but may also have a profiled shape, so that it is even better connected to the hollow profile body. In particular, for example, knobs or grooves may be provided. The notches 32 and bulges 21, 121 shown in the first to fourth embodiments are optional features that may be omitted depending on the configuration of the hollow profile body.

The first height h1 of the hollow profile body 10 in the height direction Y is preferably between 10 mm and 5 mm, more preferably between 8 mm and 6 mm, e.g. 6.85mm, 7.5mm and 8mm.

The second height h2 of the camber 21 in the height direction Y is preferably between 1 mm and 0.05 mm, more preferably between 1 mm and 0.1 mm, such as e.g. 0.5mm, 0.8mm and 1mm.

The third height h3 of the camber 121 in the height direction Y is preferably between 1.5 mm and 0.09 mm, more preferably between 0.5 mm and 0.05 mm, still more preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.07 mm, such as eg 0.1 mm, 0.12 mm, and 0.15 mm.

The first width b1 of the hollow profile body 10 in the transverse direction X is preferably between 40 and 6 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 6 mm, and even more preferably between 16 mm and 8 mm, e.g. 8 mm, 12 mm and 15,45 mm.

The first distance a1, which corresponds to the second width b2, in the transverse direction X is preferably between 15 mm and 2 mm, more preferably between 8 mm and 5 mm, e.g. 5 mm, 6 mm and 8 mm.

The third width b3 of the diffusion barrier layer 266 is preferably between 35 mm and 2 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 2 mm, even more preferably between 12 and 5 such as 6 mm, 7 mm and 9 mm.

The first thickness d1 of the first reinforcing layer 22 of metal material is preferably between 0.5 mm and 0.01 mm, more preferably between 0.2 mm and 0.01 mm, e.g. 0.1 mm, 0.05 mm and 0.01 mm.

The second thickness d2 of the second reinforcing layer 24, 124 preferably corresponds to the first thickness d1.

The third thickness d3 of the diffusion barrier layer 26 of metal material is preferably between 0.09 mm and 1 nm, more preferably between 0.02 mm and 5 nm, and even more preferably between 0.01 mm and 10 nm, e.g. 0.01 mm, 0.001 mm and 10 nm.

The third thickness d33 of the EVOH diffusion barrier layer 266 is preferably between 0.01 mm and 2 mm, more preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.8 mm, and more preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, such as eg 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm.

The thickness d331 of the second layer 75 of PP or PE is preferably between 1.2 mm and 0.1 mm, more preferably between 1.00 mm and 0.5 mm, e.g. 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm and 0.7 mm.

The thickness d332 of the first layer 74 of EVOH material is preferably between 0.01 mm and 2 mm, more preferably between 0.05 mm and 0.8 mm, and more preferably between 0.1 mm and 0.3 mm, such as eg 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm.

The first length 11 of the extension portions in the transverse direction X is preferably 0.05 b1 <11 <0.8 b1, more preferably 0.1 b1 <11 <0.5 b1 and even more preferably 0.1 b1 <11 <0.2 b1 mm.

The first wall thickness s1 of the sidewalls 16, 18 and the outer wall 14 is preferably between 1.2 mm and 0.2 mm, more preferably between 1.00 mm and 0.5 mm, e.g. 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm and 0.7 mm.

The second wall thickness s2 of the inner wall 12 is preferably between 1.5 mm and 0.5 mm, such as 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm and 1 mm.

The first length 11 in the transverse direction X is smaller than b1 / 2.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Spacer profile

10

Hollow profile body

12

inner wall

14

outer wall

16

first sidewall

18

second side wall

20

chamber

21, 121

bulge

22

first reinforcing layer

24

second reinforcing layer

25

central area

26, 266

Diffusion barrier layer

27

diffusion barrier

28

extension section

29

Bend in the extension section

30

Groove in the extension section

31

reception area

32

score

34

opening

35

recess

36

crosspiece

40

connecting portion

70

first area

71

second area

72

overlapping area

73

continuous level

74

first shift

75

second layer

76

bonding agent

Claims (15)

1. A spacer profile for use in a spacer frame (50) of an insulating pane unit for door or window or facade elements, the insulating pane unit comprising panes (51, 52) having an intervening space (53) defined therebetween, the spacer profile comprising
   a hollow profile body (10) made of a first synthetic material comprising a chamber (20) for accommodating hygroscopic material, the hollow profile body (10)

   - extending in a longitudinal direction (Z), and

   - comprising an inner wall (12), which faces the intervening space (53) between the panes (51, 52) of the insulating pane unit in an assembled state of the insulating pane unit and defines the chamber, an outer wall (14) on the side of the chamber (20) that is opposite to the inner wall (12) in a height direction (Y), which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z), and, lateral in a transverse direction (X), which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z) and to the height direction (Y), a first side wall (16) and an opposing second side wall (18), which are connected with the inner wall (12) and the outer wall (14) to form the chamber (20),

   a first reinforcement layer (22) made of a first metallic material having a first specific heat conductivity (λ₁), the first reinforcement layer (22) extending in the longitudinal direction (Z) in one piece on and optionally in sections in the first side wall (16) with a constant cross section perpendicular to and in the longitudinal direction (Z), and having a first thickness (d1),
   a second reinforcement layer (24) made of a second metallic material having a second specific heat conductivity (λ₂), the second reinforcement layer (24) extending in the longitudinal direction (Z) in one piece on and optionally in sections in the second side wall (18) with a constant cross-section perpendicular to and in the longitudinal direction (Z) spaced by a first distance (a1) from the first reinforcement layer (22), and having a second thickness (d2), and
   a diffusion barrier layer (26; 266) having a third thickness (d3; d33) and a third specific heat conductivity (λ₃, λ₃₃), the diffusion barrier layer (26; 266) being formed on the outer wall (14) at least between the first reinforcement layer (22) and the second reinforcement layer (24) and being connected in a diffusion-proof manner with the same to form a diffusion barrier (27),
   wherein
   the product of the third specific heat conductivity (λ₃, λ₃₃), and the third thickness (d3; d33) is smaller than the product of the first specific heat conductivity (λ₁) and the first thickness (d1) and is smaller than the product of the second specific heat conductivity (λ₂) and the second thickness (d2), characterized in that
   the spacer profile is formed such that, during bending of the spacer profile by 90° about an axis parallel to the transverse direction (X) such that the inner wall (12) lies further inward than the outer wall (14) with reference to the bending radius, the diffusion barrier layer (26; 266) is disposed substantially on the neutral axis.
2. The spacer profile according to claim 1, wherein
   the diffusion barrier layer (26) is made of a third metallic material and the third thickness (d3) is smaller than the first thickness (d1) and the second thickness (d2).
3. The spacer profile according to claim 1 or 2, wherein
   the first reinforcement layer (22) has a first specific heat conductivity in a range between 10 W/(mK) ≤ λ₁ ≤ 50 W/(mK) and a thickness (d1) in a range between 0.3 mm to 0.1 mm,
   the second reinforcement layer (24) has a second specific heat conductivity in a range between 10 W/(mK) ≤ λ₂ ≤ 50 W/(mK) and a thickness (d2) in a range between 0.3 mm to 0.1 mm, and
   the diffusion barrier (26) has a third specific heat conductivity in a range between 14 W/(mK) ≤ λ₃ ≤ 200 W/(mK) and a third thickness (d3) in a range between 0.015 mm to 0.001 mm.
4. The spacer profile according to claim 1, wherein
   the hollow profile body (10) and the diffusion barrier layer (266) are integrally made of a diffusion-proof EVOH-plastic material.
5. The spacer profile according to claim 1, wherein
   the diffusion barrier layer (266) is comprised of at least a first layer (74) made of diffusion resistant EVOH-plastic material.
6. The spacer profile according to claim 5, wherein
   the diffusion barrier layer (266) comprises at least a second layer (76) made of polyolefin, the second layer (76) being applied onto the first layer (75).
7. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein
   the third thickness (d33) of the diffusion barrier layer (266) is larger than the first thickness (d1) of the first reinforcement layer (22) and/or is larger than the second thickness (d2) of the second reinforcement layer (24).
8. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein
   the first reinforcement layer (22) and the second reinforcement layer (24) are coextruded with the hollow profile body (10).
9. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein
   the side walls (16, 18) each have a connecting portion (40) from the respective side wall (16, 18) to the outer wall (14), the connecting portion (40) being concave with respect to the chamber (20).
10. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein
    the reinforcement layers (22, 24) each have, as viewed in a cross-section (X-Z) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z), a profile extension segment (28) on their edges near the inner wall (12).
11. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein
    the diffusion barrier layer (26; 266) is not formed between the first reinforcement layer (22) and/or the second reinforcement layer (24) and the hollow profile body (10).
12. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein
    the diffusion barrier layer (26; 266) extends perpendicular to and in the longitudinal direction (Z) in one piece on the outer wall (14) only between the reinforcement layers (22, 24).
13. The spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein
    the diffusion barrier layer (26; 266) extends perpendicular to and in the longitudinal direction (Z) on a part of the first reinforcement layer (22) facing the second reinforcement layer (24) and/or on a part of the second reinforcement layer (24) facing the first reinforcement layer (22).
14. A bent spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 13, which is bent about an axis parallel to the transverse direction (X) such that an angle of 90° is formed by the portions of the outer wall (14) that are bent relative to each other and the inner wall (12) lies further inwardly than the outer wall (14) with respect to the bending radius,
    wherein
    the diffusion barrier layer (26) between the reinforcement layers (22, 23) is substantially uncompressed and unstretched.
15. An insulating pane unit comprising
    at least two panes (51, 52) that are arranged opposite to each other and are spaced by a distance to form an intervening space (53) therebetween, and
    a spacer frame (50) made of a spacer profile according to one of claims 1 to 14, the spacer frame (50) being arranged between the panes (51, 52) such that the outer sides of the side walls (16, 18) in the lateral direction (X) are bonded to the sides of the panes (51, 52) facing the outer sides of the side walls (16, 18) by a diffusion-proof adhesive material (61, 62) and such that the spacer frame (50) delimits the intervening space (53) between the panes.

Images